This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Marlborough’s new mayor, Lisa Farrell says, “I want to listen to the people of this town”

Written by Sue Round on 15 May 2018.

Lisa Farrell, Marlborough's newly-elected Mayor on the steps of the Town Hall with fellow members of the Town Council and flanked by the High Sheriff of Wiltshire, Mrs Nicky Alberry and her Consort (and son) Bryan Rumbold, Lisa Farrell is Marlborough’s 708th town mayor. She was sworn in at the Mayor Making ceremony in the Town Hall on Monday May 14, in front of an audience of councillors, former mayors, community representatives, family and friends and the High Sheriff of Wiltshire, Mrs Nicky Alberry. Councillor Mervyn Hall was elected as Deputy Mayor.

New Mayor, Lisa Farrell, with Bryan Rumbold her ConsortCouncillor Lisa Farrell told the audience that during her year as mayor she wants to “bring back the togetherness of the town.” (her full address can be read here) She has very strong links with the town: she was born in Savernake Hospital, grew up in Marlborough and has watched the progression of the town.

“Marlborough,” she said, “is not just a wealthy town, there are poor and vulnerable people.” She would like to see the community supporting each other. “Tiny acts of kindness can make a difference to people’s lives.”

“I want to listen to the people of this town,” she said. “It is our responsibility to be the voice of the silent majority.”

Councillor Nick Fogg quoting Shakespeare...The lack of affordable housing, the town’s traffic problems, further development of the Youth and Community Centre and the seven local charities the town has chosen for her to support will lead to a busy year as mayor.

Lisa Farrell, who is in charge of hospitality at Marlborough College, also thanked the college for their support of her roles as town councillor and mayor.

Councillor Ross praised Lisa Farrell’s campaign to bring an affordable supermarket, Tesco, to the town, her work with young people and the refurbishment of the youth centre.

Councillor Nick Fogg explained that unlike any previous mayor she could claim the accolade of having a mother who had been Marlborough’s carnival queen. He described Lisa as, “not a woman, a life force, a bundle of energy…and inspiration to all.”

“She is,” said Nick Fogg, quoting Shakespeare, “a lass beyond compare.” He foresees an exciting year as mayor – a year that will bring a new hotel, a cinema and Raymond Blanc to the town and of course the creation of Elsie Knocker Road!

Outgoing but newly elected Deputy Mayor, Mervyn Hall addresses the audienceRetiring mayor, Mervyn Hall, described his busy year and praised the hard working staff and community groups who had supported him.

As Mayor he attended 120 engagements and highlights included the refurbishment of the Youth and Community Centre, the Neighbourhood Plan, the new public toilets, a new community covenant signed with 4MI Battalion and major events like the Remembrance Day Parade, the Civic Dinner, and the Christmas Lights. Over £3000 was raised for the Mayor’s charities, Homestart Kennet and Julia’s House. Representatives of these charities were presented with a cheque.

Councillor Wilson praised the retiring mayor for doing “a fantastic job integrating new members into the council and moving along new projects in the town.”

Councillor Nick Fogg praised Mervyn Hall’s “level of quiet diplomacy,” and quoted Lord Macaulay “Even the ranks of Tuscany could scarce forbear to cheer.” Nick Fogg also praised Mervyn Hall’s ability to guide the council into asking the right questions. He alluded to Mervyn’s love of Leicester City FC . “If you can’t be chair of Leicester FC perhaps being Mayor of Marlborough is the next best thing.”

There will be continuity in the coming year as Mervyn Hall will work alongside Lisa Farrell in his role as Deputy Mayor.

Councillor Andy WilsonThe whole Town Council with the High Sheriff of Wiltshire, Mrs Nicky Alberry on the steps of the Town HallMayor Lisa with Chaplain Dr Janneke BloklandMayor Lisa with the High Sheriff of Wiltshire, Mrs Nicky AlberryNew Mayor, Outgoing Mayor and DeputyMayor Lisa with Tia Campbell (left) and Nicola Rebbeck from the Youth Centre4MI CO Lt Col Simon Puxley presents outgoing Mayor, Councillor Mervyn Hall with a picture of 4MI Battalion in MarlboroughTown Crier Mike Tupman MBEOutgoing Mayor Councillor Mervyn Hall presents 4MI's Major Kevin Read with a token of appreciation for the Battalion's support across the past year

Mrs Ann Antoni of 11 Lynden Close, East Grafton, Marlborough pleaded guilty to collecting scrap without a scrap metal licence and for the offence of transporting controlled waste, without the correct...

Following the Marlborough Choral Society's very popular Christmas concert, they are starting rehearsals on Monday, January 14 for their March 30 concert. This will feature Mozart’s Solemn Vespers and John...

A 78-year-old woman has died following a collision near Lockeridge last evening, Sunday 6 January at approximately 6.20pm on the unclassified road between Lockeridge and Alton Barnes. The woman, who...

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. hosted by KRYSTAL site byThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.login